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This New Device Uses Electrical Currents to Prevent Bacterial Infections — Without Drugs!

Published 26/10/2024 às 00:03
bacterial infections, medications
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Scientists develop a device that prevents bacterial infections with small electrical currents, without the use of medication. Learn how this technology can change treatment and combat bacterial resistance!

Researchers at the University of Chicago and the University of California, San Diego, have developed a technology RESERCH to fight bacterial infections without the use of medication. This device, called BLAST (Bioelectronic Localized Antimicrobial Stimulation Therapy), offers a safe and effective solution to reduce skin infections through low voltage electrical stimulation.

No Medication? How Does the BLAST Device Work?

BLAST is a bioelectric skin patch that emits low-intensity electrical currents, sufficient to affect bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis – a microorganism naturally present on human skin and which, under certain circumstances, can cause dangerous bacterial infections.

The aim of the research, published in the journal Device from Cell Press, was to test the effect of these stimuli in an environment similar to that of human skin. To do this, the researchers used pig skin, widely used in dermatological studies due to its structural similarity to human skin.

During testing, an almost tenfold reduction in bacterial presence was observed, highlighting the device's potential to inhibit infections.

Bacterial infections, medications

Against bacterial infections – Challenges with the use of antibiotics and the need for alternatives

Traditional antibiotics are widely used to combat bacterial infections, but they bring unwanted side effects such as nausea and fever. In addition, overuse of antibiotics is linked to the development of resistant bacterial strains. In particular, Staphylococcus epidermidis already presents variants resistant to all classes of antibiotics currently available.

Bacterial biofilms are particularly resistant to conventional treatments, and antibiotics often fail to completely eliminate these formations, allowing infections to return. By offering a drug-free alternative, BLAST represents a significant advance in bioelectronic medicine, making it possible to treat bacterial infections with less risk of developing bacterial resistance.

BLAST device testing process and results

During the tests, scientists applied a mild electrical current of 1,5 volts for 10 seconds every 10 minutes over a period of 18 hours. These electrical pulses were able to alter bacterial activity without eliminating it completely. This is especially important because S. epidermidis plays a role in healing and maintaining skin health. Therefore, researchers were concerned about not eradicating it completely, as its absence could generate imbalances.

“As the Staphylococcus is part of the natural microbial ecosystem of our skin, our idea is not to eradicate it, but rather to maintain a balance that allows us to fight infections without causing other problems”, explains Gürol Süel, one of the authors of the study.

For BLAST to work optimally, researchers applied an acidic solution to the device, since healthy human skin is slightly acidic. Infected wounds tend to have a more basic pH, which facilitates bacterial proliferation. With the help of electrodes and a hydrogel, BLAST was able to create a controlled acidic environment, essential for inhibiting bacteria without damaging the skin.

Future of bioelectronic technology and possible applications

With the positive results of the tests, the researchers believe that BLAST may soon be a viable option for treating patients with chronic wounds or who use medical implants. The team is already studying the possibility of integrating a wireless remote control system into the device, which would facilitate its use in clinical and home settings.

This breakthrough in bioelectronic medicine offers hope for millions of people suffering from recurrent infections and antibiotic resistance. Partial or total replacement of antibiotic use by bioelectronic methods such as BLAST could represent a revolution in the control of bacterial infections.

In summary, the BLAST device not only presents an innovative method, but also suggests a new direction for medicine, where less invasive treatments without side effects become an accessible and safe reality.

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Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Journalist specializing in a wide range of topics, such as technology, politics, shipbuilding, geopolitics, renewable energy and economics. I have been working since 2015 with prominent publications in major news portals. My degree in Information Technology Management from Faculdade de Petrolina (Facape) adds a unique technical perspective to my analyses and reports. With over 10 thousand articles published in renowned media outlets, I always seek to bring detailed information and relevant insights to the reader. For story suggestions or any questions, please contact me by email at flclucas@hotmail.com.

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